Published March 31, 2026 at 6:00 PM ET
Carl Anthony, based in Motor City, is the Automotive Lead for How-to-Geek, as well as the host of AutoVision News Radio. This podcast focuses on the future technology and vehicle, such next-generation ADAS innovation, electrification and software-defined vehicles. He has been a broadcaster for years, appearing on radio and podcasts such as Wrench Nation and Cars Yeah. Carl has been a popular resource to car enthusiasts for the past decade, thanks to his frequent appearances at MotorMouth Radio (90.3FM) and the AutoSens Insights Series.
Previous roles included serving as a dealer trainer and new vehicle launcher for Ford, Honda and Mercedes-Benz. Carl served as a product specialist for Chevy’s National Truck Team (an experiential marketing team that tours the United States) and was also a member of FCA’s national auto show, serving as a resident expert on Dodge Chargers and Challengers. Carl worked as a DJ, Producer, and Programmer at popular Midwest Radio Stations, such as KIWR KEZO KJAN and KELO FM, before entering the automotive industry.
Carl is a recent graduate from Iowa Western Community College, Council Bluffs. He earned an Associate in Applied Science degree for both television and radio broadcasting.
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class was the first premium SUV in 1997. It is the direct descendant of the current GLE. The German automaker has updated the GLE to combine its rich history with digital intelligence. It’s not just hardware that’s making headlines. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 2027 arrives with 3,000 revised or new components.
This is far more than a facelift. The Mercedes-Benz Operating System, or MB.OS for short, is a supercomputer which uses artificial intelligence to turn the GLE into a digital assistant. You can lead a meeting or navigate rough terrain from your seat. The new GLE is a three-row SUV that aims to offer the best performance on the market.
Four powerful powertrains (19459015)
The V8 gets a noticeable power boost
Mercedes-Benz overhauled its engine lineup for the GLE, with a focus on future-proofing and responsiveness. All models now feature some type of electrification.
This is mainly through the upgraded Integrated Starter Generator, which Mercedes-Benz lists as “ISG2.0”. The 48-volt system allows for coasting while the engine is off. It also enhances acceleration and smooths out the transition between start-stop. The four different powertrains are shown in a single glance.
The engine covers and fleece-insulated driveshaft tunnels are included in each configuration to reduce high frequency combustion noises. GLE 350 4-MATIC
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: Features a M254 EVO improved four-cylinder engine with electric compressor to improve low-end power. Two-liter engine with 255 hp and 295 lb.-ft. torque.
The signature inline 6-cylinder engine now has 375 horsepower, and 413 lb.-ft. torque. This is thanks to a new electric auxiliary compression and improved intake/exhaust port. GLE 580: The top-tier V8 now has 530 horsepower, and 553 pounds-feet of torque. It now has a crankshaft “flat-plane” (similar to supercars with high performance) that delivers power more smoothly and efficiently. Mercedes-Benz engineers redesigned both the housing and compressor wheel of the exhaust-gas turbocharger. GLE 500e Plug-in Hybrid (19659014) PHEV now based upon the refined six cylinder engine.
This offers a 74 horsepower increase compared to the four cylinder hybrid. The combined system produces 429 hp and 502 lb.-ft. WLTP claims that despite its high power output it can still achieve a range of 106km (approximately 66 miles). The Base Trim engine is
a 2.0L turbo inline-4.
the Base Trim transmission is a 9-speed auto.
the Base Trim drivetrain includes all-wheel drive
.
Cloud-based damper Control
Communication between vehicle and X in real-time
While the GLE is known for its excellent ride, the model 2027 introduces a technology that allows it to effectively “see” on the road.
The standard air suspension, for example, now includes a Mercedes-Benz invention called cloud-based control damper, which is the first in the world.
Using Vehicle-to-Everything communication, the 2027 GLE receives anonymized data from other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The cloud will send information about a Mercedes that has hit a bump or pothole.
Your GLE can then pre-adjust its damping to avoid the problem before it even reaches you. The optional E-Active body control system on GLE 580/4MATIC analyses the road 1,000 times per sec, and controls each wheel’s damper and spring forces before an impact. Even off-roading is possible with the free-wheeling option.
The 2027 GLE will automatically rock the SUV if you become stuck. This helps improve the traction of the vehicle and “hop” help the driver get out. The transparent hood uses the 360 degree camera system in a similar way to display what’s directly underneath the GLE. The driver can see obstacles such as rocks or stumps that are normally hidden behind the engine compartment.
Related to
Superscreen MBUX and videoconferencing
“I think you’re on mute”
The GLE’s interior is dominated (for want of a more appropriate word) by the MBUX superscreen. Three 12.3″ displays are housed in a glass surface. The front passenger is able to stream content while the driver concentrates on the road. This includes Disney+, YouTube or Sony RIDEVU.
Microsoft, Google and ChatGPT have integrated AI into the voice control system. Mercedes-Benz describes the AI assistant as multi-agent, allowing it to have deeper conversations with both the driver and passengers. The AI assistant can be customized to have a personality that is either a Mercedes-Benz icon or a humanoid avatar.
Video conferencing is perhaps the best addition to work on the go. Drivers can install the Meetings for Teams application from the vehicle’s app store. The camera on the GLE can be turned on so that other participants in the meeting can view the driver while the GLE moves. To prevent driver distraction, the video or shared slides cannot be viewed by drivers.
The GLE is as flexible as ever, even when away from the office. It has an option for a third row seat.
The second row can be slid forward by pressing a button. The cargo space is one of the key metrics in a luxury SUV. It is 22 cubic feet behind third row, and can be up to 29 cubic foot when third row is folded. The second and third row can be folded to create up to 72,6 cubic feet.
Luxury SUV with great air quality.
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE offers a good blend of power from the V8 engine and convenience features.
It is an excellent option for anyone looking for a luxury three-row SUV.
People who suffer from sinus problems will appreciate the fact that the 2027 GLE has a multistage electric filter with PM2.5 sensors. This monitors the air quality in the cabin and allows it to be refreshed every 90 seconds. The system switches automatically to recirculation if the sensors detect levels of carbon monoxide or dust outside.
Mercedes-Benz had not released an official MSRP starting price for the GLE 2027 at the time this article was written.
The 2026 GLE 350 begins at around $62,250 while the GLE 580 with V8 power is closer to $90,000 Expect a small increase in price for the GLE line-up in 2027, starting at around $64,000 or $65,000.